by: admindz

Cheesy Shrimp Bake

Cheesy Shrimp Bake

Okay, I’m not exaggerating when I say this Cheesy Shrimp Bake might just be my ultimate weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp swimming in a bubbly, golden sea of melted cheese—yeah, it’s that good. What really makes this dish shine is the blend of gooey cheese and a hint of garlic and herbs that smell so heavenly while baking, your kitchen feels like a cozy seafood bistro. Plus, it’s one of those dishes where you can toss everything into one pan and let the oven work its magic. If you’re craving seafood comfort without the fuss, I can’t wait for you to try this—it’s cheesy, it’s shrimp-y, and it’s ready to become your next favorite!

Quick Facts

  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How I Make It

Step 1:

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. While it heats, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in your baking dish. This gives the shrimp a flavorful base that starts building the dish from the bottom up.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and all three cheeses until it’s well combined. This cheesy mayo mixture is going to create the rich, creamy, and slightly tangy sauce that keeps everything extra moist and flavorful.

Step 3:

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the shrimp in the dish. Don’t be shy—cover those shrimp with a generous layer of cheesy goodness!

Step 4:

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 18–20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 5:

If you like a bit of crunch, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 6:

Remove from oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor before serving.

Variations & Tips

  • Swap out mozzarella for pepper jack if you want a little spice kick.
  • Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale under the cheese for a veggie boost.
  • If you prefer creamier texture, stir in ¼ cup cream cheese with the mayo and cheeses.
  • Opt for frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw thoroughly and pat dry before assembling.
  • Use smoked paprika to add warmth, or switch to cayenne for a spicy punch.
  • For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How I Like to Serve It

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. It’s also a showstopper at casual dinner parties—served with crusty garlic bread, everyone will be asking for seconds. In colder months, a warm bowl of tomato bisque on the side makes it incredibly cozy and comforting.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the shrimp tender.

Closing: This Cheesy Shrimp Bake is one of those dishes that’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—trust me, it’s an all-around winner every time.